(Photograph collection.)  

To Diary 2003

To Diary 2002

 English / Japanese

14.Dec.2004

Kobe Luminarie

The beautifully light Kobe Luminarie has been held every year to symbolize the ongoing restoration and reconstruction of Kobe following the devastation of 1995's Great Hanshin Earthquake. 

Adding a poetic charm to winter in Kobe, it now attracts millions of people from all over Japan.

12.Dec.2004

Dogo Hot Spring

Dogo Hot Spring is the oldest hot spring in Japan, mentioned even in the oldest book "Nihon Shoki." 

The top of the main building is decorated with the legendary white heron and a large drum is beat at 6:30 every morning to announce the bath opening.

5.Dec.2004

Ohshoji Temple

Autumn leaves of Ohshoji in Fukuzaki Hyogo Prefecture.

28.Nov.2004

Kyuanji Temple

At Kyuanji in Ikeda city Osaka Prefecture.
Kyuanji, located between two steep hills behind Ikeda, is a temple that was first established by Gyoki priests who came from Nara in 725. It is the Shingon esoteric School of Buddhism. This long history as a temple has left a beautiful legacy of buildings and a garden that has superb Japanese maples and various flower showings through out the year.

21.Nov.2004

Ashizuri Cape

At Ashizuri Cape in Tosa Kochi Prefecture.

It is the southernmost point of Shikoku and it offers a spectacular view.

20.Nov.2004

Harimaya Bridge

Harimaya Bridge is located in downtown Kochi city Kochi Prefecture.

 Rebuilt many times, its arched concrete bridge is painted bright vermilion.

13.Nov.2004

Kobe Municipal Arboretum

Autumn leaves of Kobe Municipal Arboretum in Kobe city.

Kobe Municipal Arboretum was Opened in 1940. Enjoy strolling the forest park where many flowers bloom and birds flit from tree to tree.

6.Nov.2004

Kogenji Temple

Autumn leaves of Kogenji Temple in Hyogo Prefecture.

The Kogenji Temple constructed in the Tamba District some 680 years ago is famous for its beautiful turning of the leaves. 

A maple tree that is said to have been brought back from China turns its color to a particularly beautiful bright red.

3.Nov.2004

Muroto Cape 

At Muroto Cape in Muroto city Kochi Prefecture.

Blessed with Cape Muroto's mild climate, there is a promenade where tropical plants flourish in abundance. Muroto also shelters three of the 88 temples built under the guidance of the famous Buddhist monk Kobodaishi.

 Plus there is spectacular scenery from the viewing platform.

31.Oct.2004

Suma Rikyu Park

The rose bloomed in Suma Rikyu Park.

Extensive site. Blue sea expanse before the eyes. Healing oasis in harmony with nature with theme of "Pines, Rocks and Water".

24.Oct.2004

Kobe City Agricultural Park

At Kobe Agricultural Park in Kobe City.

The abundance of nature in Kobe can be fully enjoyed at the facilities of the Agricultural Park. Watch the wine production process at the Wine Castle which stands on a hill covered with a vineyard. Also, a hotel, restaurants and various amusement facilities are available, providing further enjoyment.

3.Oct.2004

Suma Aqualife Park

The ticket price of Suma Aqualife Park is no charge today.

Suma Aqualife Park is not just a building for sea creatures.

It is designed with a park-like atmosphere, incorporating plant-life and trees throughout the facilities. The aquarium's main theme is "how aquatic creatures live." 

2.Oct.2004  -2

Tsutenkaku Tower

At Tsutenkaku Tower in Osaka city.

It was made as "the column which reached in the sky" in 1912 (103m hight). It is located in center of Osaka-City and can look around the city.

It is dismantled during the Pacific Wars, and it is the second generation currently.

2.Oct.2004  -1

hannyaji Temple

At hannyaji Temple in Nara Prefecture.

A simple but ancient Buddhist temple North-East of Nara Kintetsu station, Founded 747 by Shomu-Emperor The important Hannya Buddhist prayer of the Hannya sect first came from this temple. However the most popular attraction of Hannyaji is beautiful Cosmos garden.

19.Sep.2004

The Battle of Sekigahara

At Sekigahara in GIFU Prefecture.

Toyotomi Hideyoshi succeeded Nobunaga and went on to unify Japan under his rule. Hideyoshi lasted until his death in 1597. 

The fight over succession culminated in the Battle of Sekigahara, where Tokugawa Ieyasu defeated rivals, and began a 400 year period of peace.

18.Sep.2004  -2

Karahashi-Bridge

At Karahashi-Bridge (Seta no karahashi) in Shiga Prefecture.

This is one of the three historical and distinct bridges in Japan today. From ancient times it was a strategic point for military purposes, transportation, and was frequently 
destroyed by war. The beautiful scene which it offers at sunset has been a theme for artists and poets since olden times. 
Nearby there are boat regattas held annually and canoes and small boats often pass underneath.

18.Sep.2004  -1

Kiyomizudera Temple

At Kiyomizudera Temple in Kyoto.

This temple whichbelongs to the Kita Hoso sect was founded by Enchin the great priest in the 8th year of Hoki(778AD) enshrines in main sanctuary an image of Kannon(God of Mercy)Bosatsu (bodhi-Sattva)

The scenery in this temple is so excellent that people come to view it from all over the Country especially the seasons of cherry blossoms in spring and maple leaves in autumn.

This temple is the world cultural heritage.

11.Sep.2004

Kami Daigo-ji Temple

Founded by the monk Shobo (Rigen Daishi) in 874, Daigo-ji lies just outside Kyoto.

I walked for 1 hour from the parking place.

The mountain-top Kami Daigo-ji is the 11th stop on the Saigoku Kannon pilgrimage.

5.Sep.2004

IKEGAMI-SONE HISTORIC SITE PARK

IKEGAMI-SONE HISTORIC SITE PARK in Izumi city Osaka Prefecture.

This is one of the largest and most moated circalar settlement from the Yayoi period. The middle part of the ruins, surrounded by ditches of several meters wide, is designated as a national historic ruin.
In 1995, a big building(20m×7m)and a well with a hollowed-out camphor tree(diameter 2m)as a frame were excavated from the center of the ruins. The hinoki, Japanese cypress (diameter 60cm), used for the pillars, were lumbered in B.C.52, the age of which was calculated by counting the number of the cross section rings.
They were restored and are open to the public as a historic site park which reproduces the 2000 year-old settlement.

4.Sep.2004

Rokkaku-do (a hexagonal temple)

At Rokkaku-do in Kyoto city.

It is formally called Choho-ji Temple,and was formerly called Unrin-ji Temple. According to tradition, it was first built by Shohtoku the Prince Imperial, and dedicated to bodhisattva Kannon as the principal image. Rokkaku-do is famous as the place where G.Shinran shut himself up for 100 days.

28.Aug.2004  -2

Moon light

A moon light is bright in it being unexpected.

in my home

28.Aug.2004  -1

Shoshazan Engyoji Temple

I went to Engyoji Temple in Himeji-city Hyogo Prefecture.

Engyoji Temple, once one of the three training centers of the Tendai sect, is nestled in a peaceful mountain and has many important cultural buildings and statues. Founded in A.D. 966 by Shoku, a holy Buddhist priest, the temple is noted as a pilgrimage site.

22.Aug.2004

Nara Palace Site

I went to Nara Palace Site in Nara Prefecture.

In December 1998, "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara" including Nara Palace Site was inscribed upon the Warld Heritage List under the terms of the UNESCO Conyention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage.

Inscription on this List confirms the out standing universal value of cultural or natural sites which deserve protection for the benefit of all humanity.

14.Aug.2004

HAMAYUKI

I went to Maizuru in Kyoto at the weekend.

And I boarded HAMAYUKI.

HAMAYUKI was commissioned as the fifth ship of YUKI class multi-purpose JMSDF destroyer.
HAMAYUKI is equipped with many computerized and modernized weapon systemsand possesses strong capabillity of quick response to airsurface and submarine threat.

13.Aug.2004

Amagase Dam

At Amagase Dam in Uji Kyoto.

Completed on November 26th 1964, this dam is shaped in a dorm-like arch.

 Its height is 73 meters and width 254 meters.

12.Aug.2004

Baseball watching

I observed baseball in the Yahoo BB stadium.

8.Aug.2004

Kobe Port Tower

Kobe Port Tower is a red drum-shaped landmark of Kobe.

 Its height is 108 meters.

The observatory deck has a superb 360-degree view, and rotates automatically.

We can see a sweeping view of Kobe City, Awaji Island and Osaka Bay from the deck.

1.Aug.2004

Kimi-dera Temple

Kimiidera is famous for having the earliest cherry blossoms in the Kansai region.

 There are many historically significant buildings such as important cultural assets: Sakuramon, Rokkakudo, and Tahouto.

31.Jul.2004

Nakayama-dera Temple

The Nakayama-dera Temple, also called "Shiunsan," is the headquarters of the Nakayama-dera school, Shingon sect of Buddhism, and it is known as the 24th of the 33 sacred places dedicated to the Kannon in the western Japan. 

It is believed that this temple was erected by Prince Shotoku (574-622), the great historical leader and devote Buddhist of ancient Japan.

24.Jul.2004 -2

Shionomisaki Lighthouse

The lighthouse here was built in 1863 by a treaty between England, France, Holland and America. 

This 19 metre tall lighthouse's beacon can be seen form 35 kilometres away. 

It's luminance is 800,000 cd and is still in operation today for the benefit of those vessels travelling the Kumanonada Sea.

24.Jul.2004 -1

Nachi Waterfall

Nachi Waterfall is the largest waterfall in Japan, 133m high and 13 m wide with its water source in the forests of the Nachi Mountains. 

The waterfall is the religious origin for Kumano Nachi Taisha and Seiganto-ji and still is the primary object of worship.

19.Jul.2004 -2

Twilight in Suma

It was very beautiful twilight today.

From my house

19.Jul.2004 -1

Banshu Kiyomizu Temple

At Banshu Kiyomizu Temple　in Hyogo Prefecture.

There is a Buddhist temple in height of 500m.

The flower of a hydrangea was beautifully in bloom.

18.Jul.2004　-2

Ten-Taki

At Ten-Taki Waterfall in Hyogo Prefecture.

Visitors can enjoy water falling for 98 meters through their ears as well as eyes.

18.Jul.2004　-1

Ichijoji Temple

 I visited the Ichijoji Temple in Kasai Hyogo.

The three-storied pagoda (a national treasure)

→

17.Jul.2004

Baseball watching

I observed baseball in the Yahoo BB stadium today.

ORIX won Seibu.(5x:4)

11.Jul.2004

Rurikei Valley

At Rurikei Valley in Ayabe Kyoto.

Rurikei Valley stretches four kilometers from the cluster of hackberry trees in Okawachi to Lake Tuten, forming the upper Sonobegawa River area. Created due to erosion in this gently-rolling mountainous tableland 500 meters above sea level, large and small waterfalls known as the "twelve beauties of Rurikei" adorn the valley, as do strange-shaped and giant boulders. 

The pristine river running through the valley flows even during the summer, reflecting the trees and flowers on both banks throughout the changing seasons. Rurikei Valley is a nationally-designated scenic spot and a Kyoto Prefecture Natural Park.

10.Jul.2004

Kobe Municipal Arboretum

At Kobe Municipal Arboretum in Mt.Rokko Kobe.

Many hydrangeas were in bloom.

A hydrangea is very beautiful after it rains.

4.Jul.2004

Suma Beach

It was very hot today.

Many people were swimming in the beach.

The inside of a house is comfortable.

3.Jul.2004

Takamatsu Castle

At Takamatsu Castle in Takamatsu Kagawa.


Ikuma Chikumasa, a senior vassal of warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi, was given the lordship of wealthy Sanuki domain in Shikoku and built Takamatsu Castle. The castle design and planning was done by Kuroda Josui, a multitalented man famous as a war tactician.Sea water was diverted to fill the moats, a port was constructed nearby, and the castle town was planned to extend from the castle to the beach. In 1642, the domain was given by the Tokugawa shogun to a relative, Matsudaira Yorishige (elder brother of the famous Tokugawa Mitsukuni, the lord of Mito domain.)

3.Jul.2004

Ritsurin Park

At Ritsurin Park in Kagawa Prefecture.

Ritsurin park is very beautiful.

However it was very hot today.

Ritsurin Park, a National Special Scenic Spot, is one of the largest and most beatiful landscape gardens in this country. Situated at the southern edge of downtown at the foot of Mt. Shiun, 200 m high, it is always a refreshing place to visit. 

The spacious gardens, exquisitely laid out with a number of shapely mounds, several cool ponds and many tree of rare shapes, provide scores of choice landscapes, with their ever-changing seasonal charms of flowers, blossoms, tinted leaves or snow.

27.Jun.2004

Takeda castle

I went to the Takeda castle in Wadayama Hyogo.

Although only the stone wall has remained there, arrangement of a stone wall is very beautiful.

25.Jun.2004

Tokyo BIG SITE

I went to the Odaiba as New Land in Ariake Tokyo Bay.

The cable TV 2004 is held in Tokyo BIG SITE.

Ariake is the new waterfront subcenter where many people gather and vast amounts of information are exchanged. There, “Tokyo Big Sight” plays an important role as a global stage.

20Jun.2004

ARIMAFUJI

At Hyogo Prefectural Arimafuji Park in Sanda Hyogo.

There was no influence of a typhoon and it was very fine today.

The Hyogo Prefectural Arimafuji Park is the first of its kind in Prefectural urban park in that Prefectural residents participate at various stages from planning to management.

19Jun.2004

Suma beach

At Suma beach in Suma Kobe.

Many people were swimming in the sea.

The Suma beach is already summer.

16Jun.2004

Taiwan

We had a dinner after work.

All dishes were very delicious although of the outdoors restaurant.

15Jun.2004

Hong Kong

I stayed overnight in Hong Kong, in order to go to Taiwan from China.

The night view of Hong Kong is always beautiful.

13Jun.2004

China

I went to the Guangdong City in China by the business trip via Hong Kong.

China is always active.

12Jun.2004

Mimurotoji

10000 hydrangeas blooming in Mimurotoji Temple in Uji Kyoto.

Mimurotoji Temple is said to be built in late 8th century on the request of Emperor Konin. Later, Emperor Sanjo and retired Emperor Shirakawa built the Sanmaido building, which increased the beauty of the temple.

6Jun.2004

Tera Dome

At Tera Dome in Nishiwaki Hyogo.

This building is very interesting form.

A disclosure astronomical observatory in umbilicus city-Nishiwaki of Japan.

5Jun.2004

Outdoors party

We held the outdoors party in Akashi with the friends of a company.

We relaxed very much.

30.May.2004

The Dragon Boat Festival

At Aioi Bay in Aioi Hyogo.

It was the very exciting race.

The Dragon Boat Festivalis a regatta by the citizen, held in Aioi Bay on the last Sunday in May every year.

29.May.2004

Fukuchiyama Castle

At Fukuchiyama Castle in Fukuchiyama Kyoto.

A well-known castle built by Akechi Mitsuhide that takes 
advantage of the surrounding geographical features.

23.May.2004

Shosha Art & Craft Museum

At Shosha Art and Craft Museum, just a three-minute walk from the ropeway station at the foot of Mt. Shosha in Himeji Hyogo.

Designed by Miyawaki Mayumi, this harmonious museum is set in an alluring bamboo garden. The permanent 
collection features the free-spirited paintings, calligraphy, and ceramics of Shimizu Kosho, abbot of 
Todaiji Temple in Nara, traditional toys, and local crafts.

22.May.2004 -1

Sotomo

At Obama Wakasa in Fukui Prefecture.
A rock gate formed by erosion caused by waves at the boundary of the inner and outer sea waters, nearby there are numerous uniquely formed rocks and caves of various sizes, including Bat Hall, Net Cast Rock, Lion Rock, Turtle Rock, White-stream Fall, and Wide-flat Rock, which form part of the 6-km-long coastal scenery. 
There is a sightseeing boat (about a 1-hour trip) from 
Obama Port.

22.May.2004 -2

Mikatagoko

At Mikata five-lakes of the Wakasa Bay National Park in Fukui Prefecture.

Mikatagoko, or the five lakes of Mikata, consist of lakes Mikata, Suigetsu, Suga, Kugaushi and Hyuga.
The scene from the park in the summit of the mountain of a rainbow line.

16.May.2004

Rose

At Suma Rikyu Patk in Kobe.

The rose was finely in bloom in the park.

15.May.2004

Onomichi

At Senkoji Park and Tenmagu in Onomichi Hiroshima.

Onomichi has been proud of history of over 800 years since the port opened, and scenic beauty and rich emotion. Long time ago, many writers and artists visited and praised its beauty. There are many historical properties such old and famous temples. 

This town is the stage of many novels and many movies.

These stone steps were used in the movie.

5.May.2004

Kaibara

At Kaibara in Tamba Hyogo.

Hatchiman Shrine

Kaibara Hatchiman Shrine eas built in Tamba area in 1024 as one of the branches of Iwashimizu Hachimanguh shrine located in Kyoto.

The ruins of Kaibara-Han Jin-ya/Nagayamon

When Oda Nobuyasu moved from Yamato to Kaibara, he constructed this building as his residence. It was once burned down but reconstructed again. The house is the shoin style of traditional architecture. Inside of the house remains its state from old time, so it is designated to be a national historical site.

3.May.2004

Patrol vessel

Patrol vessel of Japan Coast Guard was at anchor of offshore in SUMA.
The name of Patrol vessel is "PLH07 Settsu".

PLH (Patrol Vessel Large with Helicopter)

2.May.2004

IZUMO TAISHA SHRINE

At IZUMO TAISHA SHRINE in Shimane.

The origins of Izumo Taisha are shrouded in myths, and it is unclear whether the original building was intended to serve as a palace for the earthly deity. The Main Shrine of the Izumo Taisha is dedicated to Okuninushi-no-kami, a Shinto deity. According to Kojiki (the Legendary Stories of Old Japan) and Nihon Shoki (Chronicles of Japan), the oldest books in Japan, it was the largest wooden structure in this country.

1.May.2004

Fruit Flower Park

I went to the Fruit Flower Park in Kobe city Hyougo.

The renaissance-style building and the garden with beautiful fountains.

Many tulips were in bloom.

29.Apr.2004

Ishi-no-Hoden(The Stone Treasure Hall)

At Ishi-no-Hoden in Ohshiko Shrine, Takasago Hyogo.

In Ohshiko Shrine, there is an enormous stone 5.7 meters high and 6.4 meters wide. Surrounded on all sides by water, it looks as though it is floating in a pond, and is thus called the "Uki-Ishi" (floating stone). The floating stone was made about 1200 years ago, but even today, no one knows why this stone was erected, nor what it is. There are many mysteries surrounding it, and it is counted among the three wonders of Japan.

25.Apr.2004

Infiorata Kobe2004

At Infiorata Kobe in Motomachi Anamon Kobe.

The flower picture exhibitions of Infiorata Kobe will be displayed at East Sannomiya, Motomachi Anamon, Mt. Rokko, Hyogo 
Minatogawa, Kitano, Tarumi-Maiko, and Rokko Island.
The flower pictures, created by layering tulip petals, will be on display in the roads throughout the city.

24.Apr.2004

The Forty-eight Falls of Akame

At The Forty-eight Falls of Akame in Nabari-city Mie.

A series of waterfalls, both graceful and spectacular, cascade through this narrow four-kilometer valley. The area was chosen as one of the best 100 forests in Japan and includes what is onsidered one of the best 100 water falls in the country.

＜album＞　

18.Apr.2004 -1

Remains in the Une district

At Remains in the Une district in Ako-city Hyogo.

Historical parks in the Une district, the northern part of the city, are sites of the remains of pit dwellings from the middle to late Yayoi and late Kofun periods.

18.Apr.2004 -2

Kibitsu Shrine

At Kibitsu Shrine in Okayama.

The Kibitsu Shrine，set at the foot of Mt. Naka along the old Sanyo Road，is dedicated to "Kibitsuhiko no Mikoto" who was dispatched by the Imperial Court of Yamato to conquer the Kibi Province．The magnificent inner shrine and the outer shrine gabled in the　Hiyoku-Irimoya style are designated as National Treasures．

18.Apr.2004 -3

Bitchu Kokubunji Temple

At Bitchu Kokubunji Temple in Okayama.

Emperor Shomu first commissioned the building of the Bitchu Kokubunji during the Nara Period（710-784）to bring peace to the provinces．In the Nanboku-Cho Period（1336-1392），the temple was burned to the ground．The five-storied pagoda，rebuilt in the 17th Century，towers above the everchanging beauty of the Kibi landscape．Nearby are the ruins of an 8th Century convent．

10.Apr.2004 -1

Kagakuji Temple

At Kagakuji Temple in Ako-city Hyogo.

Kagakuji Temple contains the tomb stones and wooden images of 
the 47 Samurai. It was established in 1645 as the family temple 
of the Asanos, and now serves as a historic museum as well. 

10.Apr.2004 -2

Oishi Shrine

At Oishi Shrine in Ako-city Hyogo.

Constructed in dedication to the 47 loyal samurai of Ako, 
including Yoshio Kuranosuke Oishi together with Sampei Kayano in 
1912, this is an historically important shrine because of its 
connection with the faithful warriors. 

10.Apr.2004 -3

Ako Castle Ruins

At Ako Castle Ruins Ako-city Hyogo.

The ruins of Ako Castle, which was built in 1661 by Asano 
Naganao, the feudal Lord of Ako, are over 300 years old, and 
have been classed as an historic site and cultural asset.

10.Apr.2004 -4

Ako Misaki Point

At Ako Misaki Point Ako-city Hyogo.

Ako Misaki Point and Beach are part of the Seto Inland Sea 
National Park. A spectacular view of the surrounding islands can 
be seen from the Misaki Coastline. The view is even more 
beautiful in spring when cherry blossoms are in full bloom.

4.Apr.2004

Himeji Castle

The flower of the cherry tree of the Himeji castle was very finely in bloom.
However it is regrettable that it was raining.

Himeji Castle is designated as a World Heritage Site and is called the Shirasagijo, or White Heron Castle because it looks like a beautiful white heron. The castle has kept its original design since the time of construction.

28.Mar.2004

Kobe Municipal Fruit & Flower Park

At Kobe Municipal Fruit & Flower Park in Kobe.
The ticket price was free because of commemoration of 10 anniversary.

Located in the north of Kobe City, the park has a variety of complex facilities based on the concept of a medieval European castle. Fruit and flowers are the overall theme of the Park.

20.Mar.2004

Kyoto Hanatoro 2004

At Kyoto Hanatoro 2004 in Kyoto.

Higashiyama, which will link the lower slopes of Higashiyama from Kiyomizu-dera Temple to Shoren-in Temple by means of lights and flowers, is to be held on March 12-21.This event, in order to create new night-time scenery unique to Kyoto, is held jointly by the Municipality of Kyoto, Kyoto Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Kyoto Buddhism Association, and others.

13.Mar.2004

Shirahama

At Engetsu-to in Shirahama Wakayama.

Shirahama is a historical spa resort, with its name appearing in the ancient chronicle of Japan, Nihon Shoki. The surrounding area has been developed for tourism and leisure activities, making this one of the leading sparesorts of Japan.

Small island located in the south of Rinkai bay, with the dimension of 130m in north-south direction, 35m in east-west and 25m high, its official name is Takashima. However because of a hole excavated by a sea erosion, people frequently call it Engetsu-to (Circular moon island) and it is well known as a symbol of Shirahama.

29.Feb.2004

Okamoto Park

At Okamoto Park in Higashinada Kobe.

Many flowers of a Plum bloomed and it was very beautiful.

21.Feb.2004

HAKOGI Residence

At HAKOGI Residence in Kobe.

Built in the 14th to 16th century. 

Japan's oldest minka, called Hakogi Thousand-year House.
Prototype for the four-room minka uniquely found at the center of the Kinai area.

14.Feb.2004

Plum

At Suma Rikyu Park in Suma Kobe.

Many flowers of a Plum bloomed and it was very beautiful in the Suma Rikyu Park.

11.Feb.2004

Ushimado

At Ushimado in Okayama Prefecture.

The tranquil waters of Japan's Inland Sea shimmering in the sun reflect the dramatic past of this historic region and attract marine sports enthusiasts throughout the year.

8.Feb.2004

Narcissus in Awaji Island

At Kuroiwa Narcissus Field and Sumoto Castle in Awaji Island.

Many Narcissus are very wonderful in Kuroiwa Narcissus Field.

A famous flower garden crowded with 5,000,000 pretty narcissuses blooming wildly on an approximately 7ha steep slope facing the Pacific Ocean. It is one of the 3 largest natural habitats of its kind in Japan. The blooming season is from late December to early March.

Sumoto Castle

Mt. Mikuma, at 133m above sea level, the ruins of Sumoto Castle, and this is a nationally designated archaeological site. This castle, which has a connection with Hideyoshi Toyotomi, was divided into 2: the upper and lower castle. The castle tower, which currently stands on the mountain top, is a reconstruction, and was builed in 1928, offering an impressively wide panorama not only the city of Sumoto but also to Osaka Bay and Kitan Strait. Also, a variety of precious plants naturally thrive on the north side of the mountain.

1.Feb.2004

The Plum Park

At Plum park in Mitsu Hyogo.

Some plums began to bloom in the park.

31.Jan.2004

Ashimori

At Ashimori in Okayama.

Ashimori developed as an officially appointed town of the old Ashimori clan．

White-plastered dozozukuri （storehouses）and Samurai residences still line the narrow streets of this village just off the old Sanyo Road.

 Located nearby is Omizuen Garden, once the private refuge of Lord Kinoshita．

Designed by Enshu in the Edo Period，this strolling garden is a peaceful and refined symbol of Japan's feudal age．

25.Jan.2004

Chinese New Year Festival

Chinese New Year Festival was held in Kobe Motomachi.

Chinese celebrate Lunar New Year every year for their major traditional event. 

A visit during the Spring Festival which celebrates the Lunar New Year in China makes you forget that you are in Japan.

18.Jan.2004

Goshikizuka Gravemound

At Goshikizuka Gravemound in Kobe Hyogo Prefecture.

The largest gravemound of this type in Hyogo Prefecture, constructed between the end of 4th century and the beginning of 5th century.

12.Jan.2004

Disaster Reduction Museum

I went to the Disaster Reduction Museum in Kobe.

The DRI will collect and preserve documents and actual materials regarding the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake. In the reference room, data and documents can be referred, etc.

We must remember"1.17" Learn from the Great Earthquake -- for a Splendid Future.

11.Jan.2004

Kompirasan

At Kompirasan in Kotohira-cho Kagawa Prefecture.

Kompirasan, formally known as Kotohiragu, is a highly popular shrine in the wooded hills of Kotohira.

Its main hall stands at the top of almost 800 steps, but is still only half the distance to the inner shrine (okusha). 

10.Jan.2004

Ebissann

At Hiruko Shrine in Yanagihara Kobe.

"Ebissann" is one of famous festivals in Yanagihara Kobe.

"Ebisu" is a member of "Shichifukujin (The Seven Deities of Good Fortune)" and he is Deity of fishery and commerce.

2.Jan.2004

Ise

At Ise in Mie Prefecture

Ise Jingu

Jingu is often introduced in the dictionary as "Ise Jingu." However, the official name is "Jingu" without "Ise." Jingu is principally composed of the Naiku where Amaterasu Omikami, the ancestral kami of the Imperial Family, is worshiped, and Geku where Toyouke Omikami, the kami of agriculture and industry, is worshiped.Jingu is described in the oldest Japanese books "Kojiki" and "Nihonshoki", edited about 1300 years ago.Many generations of our ancestors have worshiped at the Jingu, which exists now just as it was at its beginning.

Meoto Iwa(The Wedded Rocks)

Meoto Iwa are two sacred rocks in the ocean near Futami, a small town south of Ise. The two rocks represent husband and wife and are connected by a shimenawa rope.

1.Jan.2004

Sunrise

Sunrise on New Year's Day/1.Jan.2004

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